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Drafting Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

AutoCAD Civil 3D Drafter

Novi, MI

$20.75 - $26.50/hr

Environmental engineering drafting experience preferred * Ability to work with and take direction from Engineers, Geologists, Scientists, and Project Managers * Advanced AutoCAD skills * Ability to ...

Survey Drafter- Energy

Benton Harbor, MI · On-site

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

Convert drawing formats to be compatible with engineering and client requirements * Read and ... Operate computer-aided drafting equipment to produce working drawings * Manages billable time to ...

Survey Drafter- Energy

Kalamazoo, MI

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

Convert drawing formats to be compatible with engineering and client requirements * Read and ... Operate computer-aided drafting equipment to produce working drawings * Manages billable time to ...

Survey Drafter- Energy

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

Convert drawing formats to be compatible with engineering and client requirements * Read and ... Operate computer-aided drafting equipment to produce working drawings * Manages billable time to ...

Survey Drafter- Energy

Benton Harbor, MI

$21 - $28.25/hr

Convert drawing formats to be compatible with engineering and client requirements * Read and ... Operate computer-aided drafting equipment to produce working drawings * Manages billable time to ...

Knowledge of blueprints, process analysis and drafting terminology * Knowledge of broad machine ... and programming. Core Competencies * Problem-solving abilities, Strong Analytical skills to ...

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Drafting Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do drafting engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafting engineer in Michigan is $21.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $24.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineering roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain software engineers with extensive experience and specialized skills can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced certifications, leadership responsibilities, and work in high-demand industries or executive-level positions.

What is a Drafting Engineer?

A Drafting Engineer is a professional who creates detailed technical drawings and plans used in the manufacturing, construction, and engineering industries. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce blueprints, layouts, and schematics based on engineers' specifications. Drafting Engineers ensure that designs are accurate, meet industry standards, and can be practically implemented. They often collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to translate concepts into precise technical documents. Their work is crucial for guiding the construction or assembly of various products and structures.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineering roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain specialized software engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive or managerial engineering positions may also reach this level with significant responsibility and bonuses.

How does a Drafting Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Drafting Engineers frequently work closely with architects, project managers, and engineers from various disciplines to ensure that technical drawings accurately reflect project requirements. Collaboration often involves attending design meetings, incorporating feedback, and adjusting plans to meet regulatory and client specifications. Effective communication skills are crucial, as Drafting Engineers must interpret input from multiple sources and resolve discrepancies between design intent and practical constraints. This teamwork helps streamline the design process and ensures the final product meets all technical and safety standards.

What does a drafting engineer do?

A drafting engineer creates detailed technical drawings and plans for construction, manufacturing, or engineering projects using CAD software. They interpret design specifications, ensure accuracy, and collaborate with engineers and architects to produce precise schematics. Proficiency in CAD tools and knowledge of engineering principles are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drafting Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drafting Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, technical drawing, and CAD (Computer-Aided Design), often supported by a degree in engineering or drafting. Proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, along with knowledge of industry standards, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for producing accurate technical drawings that form the foundation for successful engineering projects and effective collaboration with design teams.

What is the difference between Drafting Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectDrafting EngineerCivil Engineer
Primary RoleCreates detailed technical drawings and plans based on engineering specificationsDesigns, plans, and oversees construction of infrastructure projects
Required CredentialsDiploma or degree in drafting, CAD certificationBachelor's degree in civil engineering, licensure often required
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD labsConstruction sites, design offices
Industry UsageUsed across engineering disciplines for detailed drawingsUsed in infrastructure, building, and environmental projects

While both roles involve technical design work, Drafting Engineers focus on creating detailed drawings using CAD software, whereas Civil Engineers oversee entire projects from design to construction. The roles often collaborate, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

Will CAD drafters be replaced by AI?

CAD drafters are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI in the near future, as their role involves complex interpretation, customization, and understanding of project requirements that AI tools currently cannot fully replicate. AI can assist with automating repetitive tasks and improving efficiency, but human oversight and expertise remain essential in drafting engineering drawings. Skills in CAD software, attention to detail, and understanding of engineering principles are still critical for drafting engineers.
What are popular job titles related to Drafting Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Drafting Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Drafting Engineer jobs in MI? For Drafting Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Permit Supervisor (Drafting)-Telecommunications

Permit Supervisor (Drafting)-Telecommunications

CCI Systems, Inc.

Flint, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


CCI Systems rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Why CCI? CCI Systems, Inc. is an Employee-Owned Telecommunications Company based in Iron Mountain, MI with 60+ years of industry knowledge and experience. Our outstanding team-based work culture and environment has allowed us to grow, develop, and retain long-term employees. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, competitive pay, flexibility, paid on the job training, overtime, professional development, and inspire you to be bold, yet accountable. We value our employees’ hard work and determination and REWARD results all while having fun!

Our mission is to make life better by connecting people through innovative communication systems.

We are seeking a Permit Supervisor (Drafting) who plays a critical role in managing the permitting workflow and ensuring compliance with all applicable Federal, State, County, and Local regulations. This role requires advanced expertise in AutoCAD principles and standards, as well as Rights-of-Way permitting. The Supervisor is expected to lead the technical and administrative processes involved in the acceptance, preparation, drafting, review, and approval of permit drawings, supporting efficient and compliant project execution.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee daily operations of the CAD team, including workload allocation, priority setting, and one-on-one meetings.
  • Provide constructive feedback, conduct performance evaluations, and create career development plans.
  • Lead hiring, onboarding, and team-building initiatives to foster a high-performing culture.
  • Develop, document, and enforce CAD standards covering layers, naming conventions, annotations, plotting protocols, and file structures.
  • Maintain the CAD Standards Manual and conduct regular audits to ensure compliance.
  • Implement drawing checklists, redlining/review cycles, and approval workflows to ensure accuracy and consistency.
  • Ensure compliance with industry standards such as NCS, ISO 128, and ASME Y14.5.
  • Identify process inefficiencies and apply lean methodologies and process mapping for continuous improvement.
  • Lead automation efforts using tool palettes, LISP routines, sheet set workflows, and custom macros.
  • Strategically plan resources and estimate drafting hours to align with project timelines.
  • Monitor KPIs such as on-time delivery, rework rates, and first-pass approval; implement corrective actions as needed.
  • Collaborate with engineers, architects, and project managers to align scopes, resolve design conflicts, and manage changes.
  • Maintain accurate drawing revisions and change logs for stakeholder visibility.
  • Curate and maintain standardized blocks, dynamic blocks, detail libraries, templates, and plot styles.
  • Ensure version control and accessibility of shared content across teams and locations.
  • Develop and deliver training programs, lunch-and-learns, SOPs, and reference materials to upskill the team.
  • Provide advanced CAD support and coordinate with IT to resolve technical issues.
  • Define structured project folders, naming conventions, archiving protocols, and backup/versioning practices.
  • Manage data integrity and access permissions within PDM/CDE environments.
  • Plan and coordinate software upgrades (e.g., AutoCAD), licensing, and feature testing.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

  • 6+ years of professional CAD drafting/design experience, including 2+ years in a lead or supervisory role managing CAD teams and workloads.
  • Expert-level AutoCAD proficiency: dynamic blocks, xrefs, Sheet Set Manager, fields, parametric constraints, paper/model space best practices, and CTB/STB plotting.
  • Proven CAD standards development and enforcement: templates, layers/naming per NCS or equivalent, annotation styles, title blocks, and periodic standards audits.
  • Strong QA/QC capability: drawing checklists, redline/review workflows, approval gates, and familiarity with relevant codes/standards (e.g., ISO 128, ASME Y14.5/GD&T)
  • Automation/customization skills: AutoLISP/macros, and/or .NET/C#/Python scripting for tooling, batch routines, and productivity improvements.
  • Working knowledge of adjacent platforms and interoperability: Revit, Civil 3D, Plant 3D, Navisworks, IFC/DGN/DWG exchange, and coordinate systems.
  • Document and data control expertise: versioning, naming conventions, libraries (blocks/details), and experience with PDM/EDMS tools (e.g., Autodesk Vault, ProjectWise)
  • People leadership and coaching: onboarding, mentoring, performance feedback, conflict resolution, and running stand-ups and 1:1’s.
  • Project management fundamentals: scoping CAD tasks, estimating hours, scheduling, prioritizing multi-project pipelines, and managing change control.
  • Clear communicator with strong stakeholder skills: cross-discipline coordination with engineering/field teams, and ability to author SOPs, training materials, and reports for leadership.

Shift is full-time Monday – Friday between the hours of 8:00 am – 5:00 pm PST. Must be flexible and willing to work outside normal business hours as necessary.

Benefits: healthcare, retirement, paid leave (e.g., sick leave, PTO, company holidays), life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, FSA, education reimbursement, wellness reimbursement, and employee assistance program (EAP).